Sir Elton John has confessed that he regrets not becoming a father sooner in life.

Speaking during a question and answer session to mark his Brits Icon Award earlier this week, the musician revealed his thoughts on family life. John and partner David Furnish have two sons, 3-year-old Zachary and 6-month-old Elijah.

"It was the best decision we ever did," said John. "I wish we had done it 20 years earlier because I am no spring chicken.

"I understand people criticising for us having children at a late age, but to hell with it. We can give these children so much love."

John also told the crowd at the London Palladium that he was not concerned about his children drinking during their teenage years, saying: "When they're 15 I will be on a Stannah stair lift. I won't give a f**k."

He also admitted that he isn't a very strict parent even now, adding: "I don't really tell them off. If they are being naughty, they are being naughty. They are just kids.

"We just say, 'Calm down, calm down'. Everything I thought would be annoying about being a father, I find enchanting."